Audio Staff Reporter

msu· Volunteer
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📍 Hamilton, Ontario, Canada📍 HybridVolunteer

About this role

Reports to: Silhouette Section Editor

Hours: Approx 4 - 6 hours per week


***Please see the bottom of posting for special instruction


The Silhouette is McMaster University’s student-run newspaper. The Sil has been in publication for over 80 years, first hitting the newsstands in the fall of 1930. The Sil employs an Editor-in-Chief and 18 undergraduate students part-time on its Editorial Board and welcomes the contributions of other students and community members throughout the year. 


This posting closes September 30 at 11:59pm, however, we will begin reviewing candidates immediately.


The Audio Staff Reporter is expected to produce one audio segment per week during The Silhouette’s publication schedule. Reporters will primarily contribute to the Frequency show associated with the section for which they were hired: News, Opinion, Arts & Culture, or Sports. The Reporter is responsible for creating engaging, accurate, and student-focused audio journalism. This includes conducting interviews, producing reported features, participating in panel discussions, and contributing to recurring show segments. Audio Staff Reporters collaborate with their Section’s Associate Editor and may coordinate with editorial staff to support cross-platform storytelling initiatives. 


Major Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Assignment Function

  • Search for audio story opportunities at McMaster and in Hamilton by monitoring campus developments, events, and community issues 
  • Pitch segment ideas to the Section’s Associate Editor for approval 
  • Conduct background research and pre-interviews to ensure informed and accurate reporting 
  • Maintain communication with the Associate Editor to ensure content is timely and relevant 

Audio Production Function

  • Produce one audio segment per week (interview, feature, or reported piece) for the assigned Frequency show 
  • Conduct and record interviews using approved recording equipment 
  • Participate in show discussions or recurring segments as assigned 
  • Submit recorded content in a timely fashion 

Editing Function

  • Ensure segments are accurate, coherent, balanced, and ethically sound 
  • Verify facts prior to recording and broadcast 
  • Incorporate edits and feedback in a timely manner 



Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

      • Strong verbal communication skills and ability to speak clearly and confidently on-air 
      • Ability to conduct engaging, conversational interviews 
      • Assertive and professional communication when reaching out to contacts 
      • Personal skills to work with colleagues and the public 
      • Time management and organizational skills 
      • Basic audio recording knowledge (training provided) 
      • Interviewing and analytical skills 
      • Rudimentary knowledge of Canadian media law and broadcast standards is an asset  
      • Ensure audio quality, clarity, and professionalism consistent with Silhouette and CFMU standards 
      • Adhere to Silhouette policies, CFMU broadcasting standards, Canadian media law, and libel guidelines 

      Effort & Responsibility 

          • Attention to detail to maintain factual accuracy and balance 
          • Persistence in securing interviews and relevant sources 
          • Ability to approach subjects as a layperson to ensure clarity for listeners 
          • Effort required to maintain consistency of weekly production and deadlines 
          • Responsible adherence to CFMU Radio Inc. Operating Policy – The Silhouette 

          Working Conditions

            • Silhouette office and/or CFMU studio environment 
            • On-location interviews may be required around McMaster campus 
            • Exposure to various weather conditions 
            • Time demands may exceed stated hours of work 

            Training and Experience 

                • Journalism, broadcasting, podcasting, or related experience preferred (previous Silhouette or CFMU experience an asset 
                • Audio recording and editing training will be provided 
                • Silhouette training over the summer 

                Equipment  

                  • Personal computer required for research and scripting 
                  • Studio and portable recording equipment provided 
                  • Editing software access through Silhouette/CFMU  

                    

                    

                  ****In addition to your resume, please submit the following assignment as per the instructions:

                  Assignment

                    

                  For a full list of duties and responsibilities, please download the full job description.

                  Frequently Asked Questions

                  Is the salary disclosed for the Audio Staff Reporter position at msu?
                  The salary for this Audio Staff Reporter role at msu is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
                  Where is the Audio Staff Reporter position at msu located?
                  This Audio Staff Reporter role at msu is based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Hybrid. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
                  Is the Audio Staff Reporter role at msu full-time or part-time?
                  This is listed as a Volunteer position. It is posted as a Audio Staff Reporter role in the Volunteer department at msu.
                  Which team or department does the Audio Staff Reporter at msu belong to?
                  This Audio Staff Reporter position is part of the Volunteer department at msu. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
                  How do I apply for the Audio Staff Reporter position at msu?
                  Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to msu's official application portal hosted on bamboohr where you can submit your application directly.
                  When was the Audio Staff Reporter job at msu posted?
                  This Audio Staff Reporter position at msu was posted on Sep 8, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
                  Audio Staff Reporter
                  msu
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